ELIGIBLE babies can now get vaccinated against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as the 20262027 RSV Infant Immunisation Programme gets underway.
The HSE is encouraging parents to see if their babies are eligible for the vaccine and protect them against the virus this winter.
Where your baby receives their RSV immunisation depends on when they were born.
Babies of higher risk of serious RSV illness will be offered the vaccine through a specialist pathway.
RSV is a common and highly contagious winter virus.
While it usually causes mild respiratory illness, it can cause serious illness in babies and young children, particularly during their first winter.
RSV immunisation is provided through a single dose of Nirsevimab, which gives babies immediate protection during the RSV season and helps protect against severe RSV infection and hospitalisation.
Babies born between September 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, will be offered RSV immunisation in maternity hospitals before they go home, where possible.
Babies born between March 1 and August 31, 2026, can receive RSV immunisation through participating GP practices.
Regional Director of Public Health HSE West and North West, Dr Áine McNamara, said it is best to get the vaccine as early as possible when approaching the RSV season to protect your baby through autumn and winter.
“The RSV immunisation programme provides protection from the outset and continues throughout the season, helping to keep babies safe when RSV is circulating most widely,” she said.
“Over the last two years, RSV immunisation has had a significant positive impact in Ireland, it has reduced the number of babies who become very unwell with RSV and require hospitalisation.”
According to the HSE, last year’s immunisation programme is estimated to have averted over 1,000 Emergency Department presentations, hospitalisations and Intensive Care Unit admissions, significantly reducing the burden of RSV illness among infants in Ireland.
Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of General Practitioners said RSV immunisation can be given safely alongside routine childhood vaccines, meaning parents do not need to delay their baby’s scheduled vaccinations.
“We would encourage parents of babies who were born between March and August to take up the offer through participating GP practices ideally before the RSV season,” he said.
“Parents who have questions about RSV immunisation should speak to their healthcare professional, who can provide trusted information and advice.”
